Google Pixel 9

Thanks to a slick new design, improved software, upgraded cameras and a vibrant display, while Samsung’s Galaxy S line might be more popular, the Pixel 9 is the true Android phone to beat.

The Google Pixel 9 is a good phone verging on great, but its $100 price increase from its predecessor comes with some unvalidated upgrades. Extra memory never hurts, but almost everything else is a pretty marginal upgrade on what was a great phone in need of some more serious improvements to reach the next level.

The Pixel 9 combines thoughtful design, solid performance, and outstanding cameras in a compact Android phone enhanced by Google's burgeoning Gemini AI.

The Google Pixel 9 falls into a few of the usual pitfalls for Google's phones, chiefly weak performance. But the Pixel 9 excels in many key areas, with battery life taking a major leap forward. Camera quality is still as impressive as ever — even if the Pixel 9's output doesn’t always compare to more premium rivals. Google continuing its pledge for 7 years of software support means this could easily be a phone you keep around for many years to come.

Some of the biggest AI upgrades have yet to come—Google will soon let Gemini tap into your calendar and tasks, as well as keep notes. Much like the forthcoming Apple Intelligence, we'll be able to see how effective large language models are when they become better personal assistants. The Pixel 9 series feels primed and ready for this challenge.

If you're a Pixel fan upgrading from an older phone, like the Pixel 6 or earlier, you'll find a lot to love about the Pixel 9. But keep in mind that for the same price, Samsung's Galaxy S24 has a brighter screen and a dedicated telephoto lens for taking zoomed photos.